51st Munitions Maintenance Squadron Association Reunion 2010

The Association got together for the 16th time in Florence, Alabama on July 7th to 11th 2010. We had a wonderful time retelling “war stories” and renewing our friendships. Ed Grady, who was responsible for starting the first reunion in 1995, attended and was presented with some gifts and recognized for his efforts. The location at the Marriott Shoals Hotel looked out at the Wilson Dam and the lake and provided a perfect setting for the reunion. Dave and Patsy did a super job making it all happen and showing us the area. Dave and his son, Matt provided us outstanding transportation and only got us on two wheels a few times, you had to have been there..! Hats off to the Burcham family for a great time.

The visit to the U. S. Space and Rocket Center provided us a look at the Space Program development and was the back drop for our group picture. Unfortunately no” miracle” could save the tour and the play about Helen Keller, as we were treated to an evening rain and thunder storm; it was one of those events that we will enjoy talking about at our next reunion.

The major topic of the business meeting was the finalized layout of the 51st MMS plaque which will be installed at the National Museum of the USAF at Wright-Patterson AFB Memorial Garden., in Dayton, Ohio. This will be done during our 2011 reunion, which is planned for the month of October.

I think we all agreed, that the time we spend together is the real reason we all attend each year. It is hard to imagine, than 45 years has passed, since we all went our separate ways from Vandenberg AFB, never thinking about seeing each other again. But here we are, looking forward to our next reunion, number 17 is around the corner.

Pete Taylor

Click on thumbnails to see full size